In this article we tell you what to see in Peschici, an Apulian town perched on the sea. Peschici is located in the northernmost point of the Gargano, in the province of Foggia. It is known for its Arab influence, steep stairways and small squares that offer a wonderful view of the Adriatic Sea, characteristics that make it unique. The city of Peschici is defined as the “pearl of the Gargano” because it is full of breathtaking views, historical monuments, nature and typical dishes. You will be mesmerized by its beauty!
How to get to Peschici
Before telling you what to see in Peschici, let’s make a small excursus on how to reach the city. Thanks to the presence of comfortable roads and public transport, we would like to say that getting to Peschici is very simple.
- By car: Coming from the north, take the A14 Bologna\Taranto pe Poggio Imperiale road. Continue on the Strada Veloce del Gargano and continue towards the coast road that leads to Peschici (SS89). From the south, take the A-14 Taranto\Bologna road towards Cerignola Est. Continue on the SS 159 state road towards Manfredonia. Take the SS89 state road to Mattinata, at this point you can reach Peschici by taking the B53 coast road or the SS89 internal road.
- By train: Travelers coming from the north by train will have to change trains in San Severo or Foggia. In both places it is possible to take a bus connection to Peschici.
- By plane: For travelers by plane, it is necessary to land at Bari airport and head to Peschici with the SITA bus or by train with connection in Foggia.
What to see in Peschici
For lovers of free beaches and walks, we recommend relaxing on the fine golden sand of Baia del Turco, a beach that can be reached via a path immersed in the greenery of the Mediterranean scrub. Baia del Turco is usually a quiet beach compared to others in the area and is perfect for those who do not want to be disturbed by the noise of the establishments. Among the things to visit we suggest the Tower of Monte Pucci. Throughout history the inhabitants of Peschici have had to defend themselves from incursions by enemies, especially the Saracens, for this reason they built numerous lookout towers. These have become suggestive panoramic points where you will be captured by the immensity of the Adriatic Sea and you can savor centuries of history. The Monte Pucci tower is one of these.
Staying on the subject, we suggest you visit the Necropolis of Monte Pucci. The archaeological site is characterized by the presence of rectangular niches arranged inside large stone galleries, the burials have been dated between the 2nd and 1st centuries. B.C. Unlike the other Apulian necropolises, characteristics relating to the Christian liturgy have been identified. The Church of Purgatory, also called “Santa Maria del Suffragio”, is located in the historic center in Piazza del Popolo and was used by the Benedictines as an ossuary. In fact, it presents many artistic references such as the carved skulls to the world of the afterlife. The most fascinating element is certainly the representation of Purgatory, Paradise and Hell on the ceiling of the church.
The “trabucchi”
Along the coast of Peschici there are several trabucchi, constructions among the most characteristic of Puglia. The term “trabucco” is dialectal and means “wood” or “beam”. These are in fact ancient constructions for fishing. Some of them are still used by local fishermen. The simple but effective system is based on wooden poles that are inserted between the rocks and ropes that are used to hold the net called “trap” to catch fish. Other trebucchi have been converted into tourist sites. You can take part in a fishing trip, do yoga or dine by candlelight! You just have to choose the experience you prefer.
Curiosity about Peschici
The first news about this town dates back to 970 AD when the Schiavoni (Slavic people who lived on the coasts of the Adriatic Sea), after defeating the Saracens, founded Pesclizio. The name Peschici is most likely of Slavic origin, in fact the root derives from “pes” which means sand. In 1177 Peschici became the fiefdom of Monte Sant’Angelo. After being the victim of the dispute between the empire and the papacy, lookout towers were built along the coast to avoid the constant incursions of the Saracens, which today are suggestive panoramic points.